Jack Beeson

Full biography Jack Beeson

Jack Beeson was an American composer, born on July 15, 1921, in Muncie, Indiana, USA. He was considered one of the most prominent composers of his time, with a catalog of 128 works which include 10 operas, the best known being Lizzie Borden , A Family Portrait. Beeson was also a talented educator who inspired and respected his students.

After graduating from Indiana University, Beeson studied composition at the Eastman School of Music and later at Harvard University. In 1951, he joined the faculty of Columbia University where he became a professor of music and taught for over 40 years. He inspired many students, some of whom went on to become successful composers themselves.

Throughout his life, Beeson wrote music for a variety of genres, including orchestral music, chamber music, and choral music. He was particularly known for his operas, which were often described as being both innovative and accessible.

Aside from his notable work in music, Beeson was also recognized for his talent in writing. In 1981, he began work on Cyrano, a heroic comedy in music, with Sheldon Harnick writing the libretto. In addition to this, Beeson wrote a number of essays and articles on music, which were widely read and highly regarded.

Jack Beeson passed away on June 6, 2010, leaving behind an immense legacy in the world of music. His work continues to be celebrated and performed by musicians and audiences alike who recognize his significant contributions to the field of composition.